Why Do I Get Random Breast Pain?

As a layperson and responsible owner of a pair of breasts, the most difficult part of assessing random breast pain is pinpointing the origin and characteristics of the pain. Internet sleuthing can never replace an appointment with your OB-GYN, but practicing breast self-examination is a vital lifelong skill.

Locate the type and source of pain

The most commonly known component to a self-exam regimen is taking note of lumps, but changes in skin texture and coloring are equally important. Skin thickening or dimpling on the breast are always cause to consult a healthcare provider. That said, breast pain takes on many forms, and locating the source of that pain is an essential part of your self-examination toolbox.

General soreness

Breast pain on its own is known as a benign breast condition. Benign, of course, is our favorite word when it comes to our bodies and especially our breasts. Benign is the opposite of malignant, which is to say the C-word. While multiple benign breast conditions may increase your chance of developing breast cancer, as stand-alone symptoms they're far less serious.

If you can, try to determine the origin and depth of the pain. Is your breast tender or is the discomfort closer to that of a post-workout soreness? A strenuous activity, especially a sport such as tennis that involves lots of arm movement, can aggravate your breasts on a muscular level. If your breast is tender, consider how long it's been since your most recent period. Tender breasts and nipples may be the result of a hormonal shift, the most common reason being ovulation.

Topical issues

Is it the skin on your breasts that's irritated? If you can, examine your back for signs of an ill-fitting bra. However, if the skin is itchy in a way that feels similar to a rash, this may be a skin yeast infection. Women with large breasts need to be especially alert for infections on the underside of their breasts. Anywhere skin folds over is ripe territory for bacteria accumulation. Make sure to clean the underside of your breasts and let them have the chance to dry fully.

Other skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, may also target breast skin, so it's important to take note of any full-body changes you've felt on the dermal level.

Mastitis

Some breast pain has far more obvious symptoms. Nipple discharge and crusting may be alarming to some, but it could be an easily treated condition known as mastitis, or a breast infection. The breast may redden, harden in an area and become very sensitive and hot, almost feverish. In addition to a changed breast appearance, mastitis may lead to flu-like symptoms, such as fatigue and full-body aches.

The most common root of mastitis is breastfeeding, as bacteria is transferred from a baby's mouth to the nipple. That said, nonlactating women and even some men can develop mastitis. A piercing or any potentially unhygienic procedure involving the nipple carries a risk of infection. Regardless of why, bacteria enters the milk duct through a buildup of milk or a microabrasion, a cut so small you can't see it. Cracked nipples in anyone, male or female, heightens the risk of mastitis—especially if the immune system is weakened, whether by a diet lacking in nutrition, smoking or an unrelated health condition.

Many reasons behind breast pain are temporary or clear up on their own, but the best course of action is always to remain calm, do your research and contact a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens.

New mothers in the first three months after delivery must be especially aware of the symptoms and causes of mastitis. Buildup can result from external forces, including a heavy cross-body bag or tight clothing applying consistent pressure throughout the day and restricting milk flow.

Mastitis may be the byproduct of a newborn with difficulty latching and suckling. As the breast isn't completely emptied, a buildup of milk provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Lactation experts can provide techniques and breastfeeding positions to improve a baby's feeding, but the breast may need to be manually expelled in the meantime.

Many reasons behind breast pain are temporary or clear up on their own, but the best course of action is always to remain calm, do your research and contact a healthcare professional if the pain persists or worsens.